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Linda Leiding

Chestermere,AB

Summary

I am an Independent Incorporated Contractor who has worked in Payroll and Human Resources for 45+ years. My knowledge includes Canadian payroll in all 10 Provinces plus the Territory of Nunavut, as well as US Payroll in 10 States, human resources in Western Canada and related Accounting. I have also handled payrolls in various other countries with their different requirements and regulations. I am familiar with several different technology systems including SAP, ADP Workforce Now, JD Edwards, Explorer, UKG, Ceridian, Dayforce, BambooHR (both HRIS and RISE Payroll) plus various other custom in-house systems. I have experience with Microsoft Office Suite using Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook for many years. I have implemented payrolls from scratch in ADP Workforce Now and managed a department of thirteen which included HRIS set up, Time Entry as well as expense entry and end to end payroll processing in SAP.

Overview

39
39
years of professional experience

Work History

Payroll Specialist

Robert Half Canada
08.2022 - 06.2024
  • Worked on specific payroll projects with different Companies as assigned by Robert Half.
  • Major accomplishments: Working for various organizations on short-term projects has allowed access to different payroll programs and different Company cultures.
  • Assisted employees with inquiries regarding their paychecks, deductions, and other related issues, providing clear and concise communication.
  • The assignments worked through Robert Half are below.

Assignment to McCloud Technologies Corp.

Robert Half Canada
08.2022 - 03.2023
  • This company used Rise Payroll and Bamboo HRIS
  • This placement was for over six months and required a total review of the payroll system and correction of the YTD balances uploaded from another system for year-end reporting. This included balancing CRA remittances, YTD totals for two payroll registers and ensuring that WCB and EHT in all Provinces were remitted accurately. This also included providing back up for their US Payroll as required.
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
  • Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
  • Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
  • Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
  • Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
  • Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.
  • Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
  • Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.

Assignment to Mistras

Robert Half Canada
04.2023 - 05.2023
  • This company used UKG as their system of record.
  • This placement was for a shorter term but gave good insight into how different payroll systems work and are set up to process payroll. For this placement, I had limited opportunity to process in UKG, but I did see how the entire process worked after timesheets were entered and approved for the processing of the small payrolls that they were doing at that time.
  • Reviewed time records for about 100 employees to verify accuracy of information.

Assignment to Dirt Environmental Solutions

Robert Half Canada
10.2023 - 03.2024
  • This company used UKG as their system of record.
  • This placement was initially for three months and was extended to 4 months to help the Company through year-end by processing US W-2's to meet the IRS Jan. 15 deadline and CDN T-4's for review to be released to UKG for printing by Feb. 15 along with related year-end reports and reconciliations. The extension of my placement resulted from one of the payroll department employees requiring an extended LOA, and the Company requires payroll processing on short notice in a complex SOX environment before returning to year-end processing. This placement has given me additional exposure to the UKG payroll system and how it functions.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
  • Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
  • Learned and adapted quickly to new technology and software applications.
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
  • Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
  • Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.
  • Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.

Payroll Specialist

Graham Management Services Inc.
04.2021 - 11.2021
  • This company used SAP and Successfactors as their system of record.
  • Payroll Manager for 7 years and after retirement, I assisted on specific special projects to help the new Manager as required.
  • Major accomplishments: The most notable project was a complete review of the 401k pension plan for the US Company, from start of SAP set up to review of calculations and remittances to ensure compliance.
  • Review of all processes and procedures along with documentation for validation of all steps and details.
  • Review of Year-End processes and procedures to simplify Year-End processing and reporting.

Payroll Manager

Graham Management Services Inc.
10.2014 - 04.2021
  • This company used SAP and Successfactors as their system of record.
  • As Payroll Manager, I managed all aspects of the department including HRIS, Time Entry, reconciliation, and payment of all Third-Party Vendors, including processing end to end payrolls on both SAP and ADP for 3,500 CDN and 500 US employees. In addition, payroll responsibilities also included all Year End requirements and all changes to Union Contracts for Building Trade Unions as well as CLAC Agreements in AB, BC, MB, ON and SK and Unions in WA and CO in the US.
  • Worked with VP Finance and HR Team to set up a Canada to US Mobility process for a Cross Border program for employees.
  • Clean up and repair SAP Payroll issues to process correctly and post to GL accurately.
  • Stayed up-to-date on industry best practices and emerging trends in benefits management through continuing education courses.
  • Ensured accurate and timely payroll processing for over 3,000 employees in Canada and growing to 1,000 employees in the U.S., adhering to federal and state regulations.
  • Manage and provide guidance for Career Paths and Training for all Department Employees.
  • Addressed employee inquiries regarding pay issues promptly, fostering positive relationships between management and staff members.
  • Coordinated new hire and termination processes to facilitate smooth operations.
  • Managed a team of payroll specialists, providing training and guidance to ensure timely and accurate payroll processing.
  • Improved payroll accuracy by conducting regular audits and addressing discrepancies proactively.
  • Ensured compliance with federal, state, and local tax laws by staying current on regulations and updating policies accordingly.
  • Streamlined payroll processes by implementing efficient systems and tools, resulting in reduced processing time.
  • Uploaded time records into computer system and made adjustments to create accurate database for payroll processing functions.
  • Provided expert advice on complex pay-related matters such as overtime calculations, garnishments, bonuses, or deductions to both employees and managers alike.
  • Developed and implemented payroll procedures and policies to determine compliance with regulations.
  • Reduced errors in payroll data entry by implementing automated systems and providing thorough training to staff members.
  • Prepared and filed accurate and timely payroll tax returns and other related reports to comply with tax laws and regulations.
  • Spearheaded efforts to reconcile historical payroll discrepancies, resulting in improved relationships with affected employees and restored trust in the system.
  • Mentored junior team members, helping them develop the skills necessary for career advancement within the payroll field.
  • Successfully transitioned from a manual to an electronic payment system for direct deposit enrollments, reducing paper waste within the organization.
  • Integrated newly acquired companies into existing payroll systems while ensuring full compliance with relevant tax laws.
  • Developed comprehensive reports for management detailing payroll expenses, trends, and projections.
  • Optimized tax filing procedures, ensuring compliance and avoiding penalties.
  • Analyzed business processes to identify cost savings and operational efficiencies.

Payroll Manager

HB Construction Company
06.2014 - 10.2014
  • This company used an older version of JD Edwards at their system of record but was in transition to a newer version of JD Edwards,
  • Short term position with Construction company like NACG. While in this position, I was recruited by an agency to move to Calgary for the position at Graham Management Services Inc. which I took due to the financial issues with the current company.
  • Major accomplishments: Worked with DOS version of Explorer to fix issues with set up of the payroll side of this program and ensure compliance with all required parties.
  • General Payroll Responsibilities - processing payroll, update processes and policies, year-end to employee inquiries to provide assistance with payroll-related questions. Working with the Building Trades Unions and reconciliation of the YTD contributions.
  • In addition to the Building Trades Union reconciliation, a full audit of the Benefits coverage, deduction and remittances as well as a full audit on payroll set up and the accuracy of payments and deductions.
  • Reconciled all Government and Benefit calculations for compliance and corrected any calculation errors and payments.
  • Collaborated with Accountant to reconcile all postings to make sure Payroll expenses were accurate in the GL.
  • Started working on an upgrade from the Explorer integrated program to a Windows version before leaving the company.
  • Worked on the payroll side of this program for set up and ensure compliance with all required parties.
  • Addressed employee inquiries regarding pay issues promptly, fostering positive relationships between management and staff members.
  • Reviewed time records for approximately 250 - 500 employees during changing work requirements to verify accuracy of information.
  • Processed retroactive pay adjustments and other special payments to make up for compensation shortfall in previous pay period.
  • Maintained employee confidence with secure handling of sensitive information during all stages of the payroll process.
  • Partnered with IT professionals to develop custom software solutions tailored specifically for company''s unique payroll needs.
  • Mentored junior team members, helping them develop the skills necessary for career advancement within the payroll field.
  • This was a 2 person department. The Payroll Administrator, looked after the HRIS set up for Employees, processing the payroll in Explorer, and remitting of payroll accounts payable.
  • Successfully managed multiple concurrent projects while prioritizing tasks effectively to meet strict deadlines.
  • Continuously assessed current policies and procedures, recommending improvements to streamline operations and optimize efficiency.
  • Maintained compliance with federal regulations, avoiding costly penalties and fines.
  • Utilized advanced Excel skills to create custom reports for management, providing valuable insights into payroll data.
  • Regularly updated knowledge of relevant legislation changes that impacted company''s payroll practices.
  • Coordinated with Finance department to ensure all necessary journal entries were accurately recorded each pay period.
  • Reduced payroll errors through meticulous attention to detail and thorough auditing practices.
  • This was a 2 person department. The Payroll Administrator, looked after the HRIS set up for Employees, processing the payroll in Explorer, and remitting of payroll accounts payable.

Payroll Manager

North American Construction Group
07.2011 - 10.2014
  • This company used JD Edwards as their system of record.
  • Moved to Edmonton, AB from Prince George, B.C. to take this position.
  • This company used JD Edwards as their system of record
  • Major Accomplishments: Initially the Department was processing payroll for just under 4,000 employees. Within 3 months, the Time Entry and HRIS functions were consolidated within the payroll team. This allowed the payroll team to segregate duties as well as work together to ensure that all employees’ pay calculated accurately and that employees were paid on time.
  • Coordinated new hire and termination processes to facilitate smooth operations.
  • Established and checked coding procedures, monitored reports and updated internal files.
  • Addressed employee inquiries regarding pay issues promptly, fostering positive relationships between management and staff members.
  • Reviewed time records for 4,000+ employees. The number of employees varied on the time of year, and the requirements of a job. The review was conducted to verify accuracy of information, time and date the time record was actually sent to the department for entry, as well as ensuring the work schedule matched the time records received.
  • Uploaded time records into computer system and made adjustments to create accurate database for payroll processing functions.
  • Worked with the IT department to automate the Vacation Time, Sick Time, and Disability time which included validating the Vacation owed and taken in the system, then setting up the these numbers in the system for each eligible employee. The next step was to test the system for positive and negative outcomes. Education for the employees on how to use the system was done - even though employees knew this implementation was coming, there was a period of time needed to support employees on how to use, when changes would show up on their paystubs and what to do it something change a the time was not taken.
  • Provided expert advice on complex pay-related matters such as overtime calculations, garnishments, validity year-end forms like T2200 form. bonuses, or deductions to both employees and managers alike.
  • Managed a team of payroll specialists, providing training and guidance to ensure timely and accurate payroll processing.
  • Uploaded time records into computer system and made adjustments to create accurate database for payroll processing functions.
  • Improved payroll accuracy by conducting regular audits and addressing discrepancies proactively.
  • Maintained employee confidence with secure handling of sensitive information during all stages of the payroll process.
  • Developed and implemented payroll procedures and policies to determine compliance with regulations.
  • Updated payroll policies to reflect changes in legislation, maintaining compliance and mitigating risks.
  • Managed year-end payroll activities, ensuring timely and accurate W-2 distribution.
  • Spearheaded efforts to reconcile historical payroll discrepancies, resulting in improved relationships with affected employees and restored trust in the system.
  • Mentored junior team members, helping them develop the skills necessary for career advancement within the payroll field.
  • Conducted regular audits of payroll processes to ensure adherence to internal policies and external regulations.
  • Managed year-end payroll activities, ensuring timely and accurate -4 and T-4A along with valid T-2000 forms distribution.
  • Prepared and filed accurate and timely payroll tax returns and other related reports to comply with tax laws and regulations.

Payroll Manager

YRB Group
07.2011 - 05.2014
  • This company used an older version of JD Edwards which was transitioned to a newer version of JD Edwards while I was there. I worked on the Payroll and HRIS portion of the implementation of this system.
  • Moved to Prince George to take this position with the Management Group of four Highway Road and Bridge Maintenance companies in the Province of BC. This was a unionized company in the BCGEU even though the BC Government no longer employed the employees directly.
  • Major accomplishments: The IT department changed from a DOS based version of Explorer to a windows version. Set up the Payroll and HR modules in a test environment and evaluated processing and posting through to GL with other departments. Set up the system in live environment and trained all Payroll staff on new processes.
  • Also trained staff in the four companies who needed to access and set up information in the system on what their new processes required.
  • Recruited and interviewed prospective candidates for all office positions in all companies.
  • Responsible for all benefits programs including Policy updates and annual renegotiation for all companies and worked with agency to ensure compliance with union agreements.

Western Regional HR Manager

Rexell Canada
04.2001 - 03.2004
  • This company was using the Royal Bank Payroll and HRIS system which later became part of ADP.
  • Based in Richmond, BC, reporting to Director, Human Resources in Corporate Head Office. Worked with all Divisions of Westburne and Nedco in Western Canada, providing training, support, advice, and assistance as required for all employees.
  • Corporate Head Office in Mississauga, ON

Human Resources Manager

Nedco West
03.1997 - 03.2001
  • This company was using the Royal Bank Payroll and HRIS system which later became part of ADP.
  • With morale extremely low, a revised Service Rewards Program, changing from pins every 5 years to an online program offering a choice of gifts based on seniority. The new program began after 3 years of service, which improved morale and the existing employee turnover point.
  • Major accomplishments: A Performance Management Program was created and implemented. This program started with an employee review process using competencies and the utilized the same criteria to new hires.

Payroll Manager

Westburne Group
11.1985 - 02.1997
  • This company was using the Royal Bank Payroll and HRIS system which later became part of ADP.
  • As the Payroll Manager for Westburne Group, my team processed Payroll for two divisions of the Corporation - Westburne BC and Nedco West. Each did end to end payroll for one of the two divisions.
  • Major accomplishments: This was a smooth Payroll process using an RBC System (which later became ADP) and the process was well refined and updated as necessary to keep it working efficiently throughout the year.
  • With the divisional changes in Management, I received a promotion to the HR Manager's position for the Nedco West division. This Division covered the 4 Western Provinces - AB, BC, MB, and SK.

Education

CPA Diploma - Canadian Payroll Association

Viscount Bennett High School
01.1986

PMP Diploma - Canadian Payroll Association

Viscount Bennett High School
01.1987

HR Diploma - Canadian Payroll Association

Viscount Bennett High School
01.2011

Timeline

Assignment to Dirt Environmental Solutions

Robert Half Canada
10.2023 - 03.2024

Assignment to Mistras

Robert Half Canada
04.2023 - 05.2023

Assignment to McCloud Technologies Corp.

Robert Half Canada
08.2022 - 03.2023

Payroll Specialist

Robert Half Canada
08.2022 - 06.2024

Payroll Specialist

Graham Management Services Inc.
04.2021 - 11.2021

Payroll Manager

Graham Management Services Inc.
10.2014 - 04.2021

Payroll Manager

HB Construction Company
06.2014 - 10.2014

Payroll Manager

North American Construction Group
07.2011 - 10.2014

Payroll Manager

YRB Group
07.2011 - 05.2014

Western Regional HR Manager

Rexell Canada
04.2001 - 03.2004

Human Resources Manager

Nedco West
03.1997 - 03.2001

Payroll Manager

Westburne Group
11.1985 - 02.1997

CPA Diploma - Canadian Payroll Association

Viscount Bennett High School

PMP Diploma - Canadian Payroll Association

Viscount Bennett High School

HR Diploma - Canadian Payroll Association

Viscount Bennett High School

Work Availability

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Quote

Judge a man by his questions rather than his answers.
Voltaire

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My goal: To keep helping companies who may need help covering absences due to maternity, parental, illness or injury or while searching for replacement for an open position. As a Contractor working from home, I am open to Full or Part Time, Temporary or Permanent work. This could be short-term or long-term based on the requirement of the position.

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Linda Leiding